With the overnight score on 86 for one, Rehman and Kayes took the uninspiring Sri Lankan bowling attack to the cleaners, notching up the second highest partnership for Bangladesh for any wicket. The only wicket to fall so far was of Tamim Iqbal in the first over of the hosts’ innings.

Sri Lanka’s lone wicket-taker Suranga Lakmal looked like the only bowler who could cause any damage whereas pacer Nuwan Pradeep was targeted by the Bangladesh batsmen for easy runs. Ajantha Mendis, replacing Rangana Hearath was also easy pickings for the Bangladeshi duo, who were looking all set to score well-deserving hundreds.